Academic Learning Specialist

As a thought-leader and best-in-class provider in education, wellness, youth development, and community-building, The YMCA of Metro Atlanta is one of the oldest, most nimble and essential nonprofits in Atlanta. Mission-bound to serve, we are an organization designed to meet all people where, how and when they need us. In times of peace, we are a catalyst for connection; in times of crisis, a source of comfort and security. Join us as we carry out our commitment to positively impact lives and communities across the state.

The opportunities to serve are vast, and we’re looking for a diverse mix of people, who share our values of CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT, and RESPONSIBILITY, to join us and do their best work.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in our people, our members, and our partners. We are fully focused on equality and believe deeply in diversity of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, national origin and all the other wonderful characteristics that make us different.

Nature and Scope:

Under the general direction of the After-School Program Director, the Academic Learning Specialist is responsible for leading and providing individual or small group academic support during Afterschool program. The Learning Specialist will be responsible for supervising and implementing academic-related assignments for the school-age children in accordance with their school district curriculum. In addition, the Learning Specialist will develop and design learning material, coordinate, and review educational content, and incorporate current technology in developing specific class assignments that build upon the skills needed to be successful.  All program decisions must be guided by Bright from the Start/DECAL and the Metro Atlanta YMCA program standards. Additionally, this position must perform duties in accordance with the policies, goals, mission, values, and objectives established by the Metropolitan Atlanta YMCA, Branch Strategic Plan, Safety Protocols including COVID-19, and Member Services Guidelines and Program approved non-negotiables.  Emphasis will be placed on member service, program knowledge, participant/staff safety, and communication with members and employees.

Minimum Requirements:

• Must be 21 years of age.
• A bachelor's degree or technical certification or degree preferred.
• For those working at licensed Bright from the Start facilities, must possess a minimum credential that meets BFTS requirements.
• Must have a minimum of one-year prior experience working with school-age children in a group setting.
• Preferred one-year experience working in a licensed setting and supervision of children in a school-age setting is a plus.
• Have evidence of current successful completion of biennial training in CPR/First Aid/AED.
• Excellent verbal/written communication skills.
• Have experience with Microsoft Office software, including Word, Excel, and Power Point, as well as, internet technology platforms such as Google Classroom and Zoom.
• For facilities that operate under Bright From the Start Licensing, must receive a cleared GCIC/NCIC and a cleared Fingerprint check through Bright From the Start before working.  (Annual GCIC checks will be conducted before each school year begins).

Responsibilities:

• Operate the program according to YMCA policies and procedures.
• Create an environment that provides various activities and instruction to support program goals and virtual learning school instruction.
• Assist students with virtual learning assignments as required by their school district.
• Communicate and coordinate with participant teachers and parents on child’s learning opportunities and needs.
• Operate and deliver the program in compliance with YMCA and BFTS regulations, if at a licensed BFTS facility.
• Discuss and report any concerns with the Site Director.
• Maintain personal file to remain in compliance with the YMCA and BFTS, if at a licensed BFTS facility.
• Compile attendance records and other pertinent information required by the program, as needed.
• Coordinate supply needs with the Site Director. 
• Attend YMCA and other trainings as scheduled. Maintain BFTS annual trainings hours, if licensed site.
• Consult with the Site Director on concerns related to student(s) development or behavior.
• Provide input into the planning and development of the program.
• Complete monthly self-assessments of the program, as needed.
• Assist students with virtual learning assignments as required by their school district.
• Perform other duties as related to the delivery of a quality program.
• This position must perform duties in accordance with the policies, goals, mission, values and objectives established by the Metropolitan Atlanta YMCA, Branch Strategic Plan, Safety Protocols Including COVID-19, and Member Services Guidelines and Non-Negotiables. Emphasis will be placed on member service,
• program knowledge, member/staff safety, and communication with members and staff.
•  Implements the YMCA safety protocols both related to COVID -19and branch operations.
• Implement wellness checks and provide leadership during the program that ensures participant/staff adherence to the Y safety protocols, with a commitment to positive member and staff safety.
• Adhere to the YMCA Youth and Teen Safety Policy.
• Follow a budget in accordance with approved expenditures.
• May facilitate live and recorded learnings.
• Support the deployment of learning programs including downloading coursework and educational assignments.

YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Mission:  Accepts and demonstrates YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility; demonstrates a desire to serve others and fulfill community needs; recruits volunteers and supports fundraising activities.

Collaboration:  Works effectively with people of different backgrounds, abilities, opinions and perceptions; builds rapport; seeks first to understand others’ point of view and remains calm; speaks and writes effectively; takes initiative.

Operational Effectiveness: Strive to meet or exceed goals and deliver a high-value experience for members; Makes sound judgments and transfers knowledge from one situation to another; establishes goals, clarifies tasks, plans work and actively participates in meetings; follows policies and procedures; strives for best practices.

Personal Growth:  Pursues self-development; demonstrates an openness to change; is emotionally mature.

Ergonomic Requirements:  Bending, stooping, standing, lifting up to 40 pounds, seeing, verbal communication and hearing.

Effect of end Result:

Children and Families will experience a high-quality school-age program.  Children will be supervised at all times.  The program will remain in compliance at all times with YMCA, and Bright From the Start-if at a licensed BFTS facility, rules and regulations.

Location: